LSI

Module Specification (Flexible Online)

Advanced Digital Acumen



Advanced Digital Acumen

The digital economy is a complex, rapidly evolving landscape, where opportunities and risks coexist in equal measure. This module cuts through the noise, offering you a clear, authoritative understanding of how digital business works at its core. It's designed to give you the strategic perspective needed to navigate the intricacies of the tech-driven world, ensuring you're not just keeping up but staying ahead.

Within this module, you'll dive deep into the heart of technology ecosystems and platforms, demystifying the roles of major players and understanding the fine line between products and services. You'll explore the strategic choices behind technology implementation, examining real-world trade-offs and case studies that highlight the practical implications of these decisions. We also pull back the curtain on the often-hidden politics of the digital marketplace, revealing the commercial agendas that shape partnerships and influence outcomes.

Beyond the technical and commercial aspects, this module prepares you to align your career with your personal values and goals. You'll gain insights into the organisational cultures across industries and learn to match your professional aspirations with the right environments. Whether you're weighing permanent roles versus contracting or considering the trade-offs of generalist versus specialist pathways, you'll come away with a clear, strategic plan for your career, tailored to your unique ambitions and strengths.

Mode(s) of Study Code CATS Credits ECTSCredits Framework HECoSCode
Flexible online DA71O 15 7 FHEQ - L7 business information systems

Prerequisites and Co-requisites

None

Learning Outcomes

Code AttributesDeveloped Outcomes
LO1 Knowledge and Understanding Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of the digital economy's structure and major IT platforms and vendors.
LO2 Knowledge and Understanding Explain the convergence of product and service models in digital transformation with concrete industry examples.
LO3 Intellectual Skills Critically evaluate strategic technology implementation choices, including ERP and best-of-breed solutions, in complex business contexts.
LO4 Technical/Practical Skills Design strategic career development plans based on organisational types, industry trends, and personal aspirations.
LO5 Professional/Transferable Skills Apply advanced interpersonal and networking skills to navigate opportunities in technology-driven environments.
LO6 Professional/Transferable Skills Demonstrate ethical decision-making in navigating career paths and organisational roles within unpredictable digital landscapes.

Student Workload

The methods of teaching and learning for this module are based on LSI's Foundational 15 teaching system, consisting of the following activities.

Activity TotalHours
Introductory lecture 1.50
Concept learning (knowledge graph) 18.00
AI formative assessment 9.00
Case Study Review 9.00
Workshop/Lab Sessions 13.50
Individual or group assignments 18.00
Independent reading, exploration and practice 57.00
Summative assessment 24.00
Total: 150.00

Teaching and Learning Methods

Activity Description
Introductory lecture

This first weekly session features a specially recorded video by the module leader for online learners, providing a comprehensive introduction to the module. The video outlines the significance of the subject and its interrelation with other modules. No preparation is required from students prior to this session.

The module leader will also provide a structured breakdown of the content to be covered in the subsequent 10 sessions. Students will access a dedicated learning portal, which will include essential reference materials and suggestions for supplementary reading. The format and criteria for the summative assessment will be clearly outlined to ensure understanding of expectations.

The video will also explain how the interactive learning platform utilises generative AI tools to enhance the learning experience, offering tailored resources and adaptive quizzes. A discussion board will promote peer interaction, allowing students to share insights and ask questions, while weekly reflection prompts will encourage critical thinking and deeper engagement with the material.

A dedicated section for submitting queries will ensure timely responses from the module leader. This structured approach promotes a high-quality academic experience, supporting student engagement and learning in an online environment.

Concept learning (knowledge graph)

Our institution's approach to teaching is primarily based on flipped learning. Ahead of each weekly session (Workshop/Lab), students will be required to study the essential concepts that are used in the coming session so they are familiar with the theories and ideas related to that session. The study material will be in the form of written content, illustrations, pre-recorded lectures and tutorials, and other forms of content provided through the AGS.

This content is self-navigated by the students, accommodating different learning styles and schedules, allowing students to watch or listen to them at their own pace and review them as needed.

AI formative assessment

Once each concept of the theory is studied, students will be prompted to engage in formative assessment with instant AI feedback. They include multiple-choice questions, socratic questions and answers, written questions, role-play and other AI-assisted practice scenarios.

The purpose of this automated formative assessment is to provide students with immediate feedback on their understanding of module material and highlight any areas that need support or further study. They are also used to track student progress, boost motivation and promote accountability.

Case Study Review

In this learning activity, students explore recent real-world case studies relevant to their course topic. The case studies will have been selected and curated by the module leader to represent up-to-date examples. They guide students through key details, contextual factors, and outcomes. This approach enhances students' understanding of current industry trends, challenges, and solutions, preparing them for real-world scenarios they may encounter in their future careers.

The learning experienced will be augmented by AI (virtual private tutor) allowing the students to critically engage with the content and discuss the case studies.

Workshop/Lab Sessions

For those studying in the self-paced online mode, live classes will be replaced by a set of flexible, self-directed activities designed to be completed independently. These include AI-led simulations, interactive videos, reflective prompts, and real-world case studies, all aimed at deepening understanding and fostering critical, independent thinking. AI avatars will simulate a classroom environment, allowing students to interact with virtual instructors for guidance or discussion, creating a more immersive experience. This structure promotes a high-quality, autonomous learning experience, equipping students with skills essential for both academic and professional success. Additionally, a dedicated feature for submitting questions to the module leader will provide timely responses and support.

Individual or group assignments

Assignments will vary in format, including analytical essays, voice presentations, and individual projects. Instead of real-time group work, students will engage with AI avatars designed to simulate peer interactions. These avatars can provide guidance, pose questions, and simulate discussions, enhancing collaboration in a virtual setting. This approach will encourage students to work together effectively while utilising AI to generate insights and perspectives on their assignments.

Students will upload their completed assignments to the learning platform before the next weekly session. Timely feedback will be provided on each submitted task, helping students refine their understanding and enhance their skills. AI-driven feedback mechanisms will offer personalised insights, guiding students in areas for improvement.

Independent reading, exploration and practice

This activity challenges students to engage with the reference material and independently explore and analyse academic literature related to the course topic. Students are expected to select relevant sources, practice critical reading skills, and where applicable technical skills, and synthesise information from multiple references. This is an opportunity to enhance research abilities, critical thinking, and self-directed learning skills while broadening and deepening subject knowledge.

Summative assessment

Summative assessments are used to evaluate student learning at the end of a module. These assessments can take many forms, including exams, papers, or presentations. Instructors can use summative assessments to measure whether students have achieved the learning outcomes for the module and provide them with a sense of their overall progress. Summative assessments can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching methods used in the module.


Assessment Patterns

Weighting Format Outcomes assessed
50 Analytical Essay Coursework
This coursework requires students to produce an analytical essay in response to a question, or related questions, based on a defined area of the module. Its purpose is to assess students’ ability to interpret a technical or conceptual question independently, undertake relevant research, critically analyse evidence and perspectives, and communicate a coherent and well-supported academic argument.

Students will be set an analytical question, or related questions, addressing a discrete area of the module. They will be expected to research the topic, consider different or competing perspectives, evaluate relevant evidence and develop a reasoned response supported by appropriate sources. The assessment particularly develops and tests interpretation, research, critical thinking, argumentation and academic writing, alongside achievement of the relevant module learning outcomes.

Students will practise analytical writing, in particular through AI-augmented assignments, and develop their ability to interpret questions, research effectively, evaluate evidence and structure coherent arguments. Module Leaders can provide further support, particularly through consultation.

In the virtual learning environment (VLE), students will complete formative assessment tasks, such as quizzes and assignments, and have opportunities to receive actionable feedback from AI, staff and peers. This will help students identify how to improve future work and develop their ability to give constructive feedback to others.
I LO3
K LO1
K LO2
P LO5
P LO6
T LO4
50 Invigilated Exam
This is a time-limited examination undertaken during the summative assessment period under the School’s remote invigilation conditions to support quality and academic integrity.

The examination enables students to demonstrate achievement of the module learning outcomes, particularly in relation to knowledge and understanding, and where relevant professional and transferable skills.

Questions may include problems, issues or dilemmas reflecting situations students could encounter in professional practice. Students are expected to synthesise and apply their learning to analyse the issues and reach sound, reasoned judgements.

To support preparation, formative assessment activities, including quizzes, dialogues and an AI-augmented assignment, are built into the module. Students receive actionable feedback from AI, staff and peers to help improve future work and develop their ability to give constructive feedback to others.
I LO3
K LO1
K LO2
P LO5
P LO6

References/Indicative Reading List

Importance ISBN Description
Core Textbook 9781509517596 Jordan, T. (2019) The Digital Economy. Cambridge: Polity.
Core Textbook 9781625272485 Westerman, G., Bonnet, D. and McAfee, A. (2014) Leading Digital: Turning Technology into Business Transformation. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. https://www.perlego.com/book/837136/leading-digital-turning-technology-into-business-transformation
Supplementary Reading 9781633693722 Davenport, T. H. and Harris, J. G. (2017) Competing on Analytics: Updated, with a New Introduction. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. https://www.perlego.com/book/837308/competing-on-analytics-updated-with-a-new-introduction
Supplementary Reading 9781394152124 Van Maanen, J., Schein, E. H. and Schein, P. A. (2023) Career Anchors Reimagined: Finding Direction and Opportunity in the Changing World of Work. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9780814437353 Mulcahy, D. (2016) The Gig Economy: The Complete Guide to Getting Better Work, Taking More Time Off, and Financing the Life You Want. New York, NY: AMACOM.
Supplementary Reading 9781440831652 Rothwell, W. J., Jackson, R. D., Ressler, C. L., Jones, M. C. and Brower, M. (2015) Career Planning and Succession Management: Developing Your Organization's Talent, for Today and Tomorrow, 2nd edn. Santa Barbara, CA: Praeger.
Supplementary Reading 9780470650264 Cameron, K. S. and Quinn, R. E. (2011) Diagnosing and Changing Organizational Culture: Based on the Competing Values Framework, 3rd edn. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Supplementary Reading 9781633692701 Weill, P. and Woerner, S. L. (2018) What's Your Digital Business Model? Six Questions to Help You Build the Next-Generation Enterprise. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press. https://www.perlego.com/book/837426/whats-your-digital-business-model-six-questions-to-help-you-build-the-next-generation-enterprise
Supplementary Reading 9780470023686 van der Heijden, K. (2005) Scenarios: The Art of Strategic Conversation, 2nd edn. Chichester: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9781137477705 Skilton, M. (2016) Building the Digital Enterprise: A Guide to Constructing Monetization Models Using Digital Technologies. London: Palgrave Macmillan. https://www.perlego.com/book/3487287/building-the-digital-enterprise-a-guide-to-constructing-monetization-models-using-digital-technologies-pdf
Supplementary Reading 9781578517787 Ibarra, H. (2003) Working Identity: Unconventional Strategies for Reinventing Your Career. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press.
Supplementary Reading 9783031452246 Baines, T. (2024) Servitization Strategy: Delivering Customer-Centric Outcomes Through Business Model Innovation. London: Palgrave Macmillan. https://www.perlego.com/book/4921204/servitization-strategy
Supplementary Reading 9781637424452 Scanlon, K. (2023) The Hybrid Entrepreneur: A Novel Career in Science and Business. New York, NY: Business Expert Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781119909279 Leblanc, R. (ed.) (2024) The Handbook of Board Governance: A Comprehensive Guide for Public, Private and Not-for-Profit Board Members, 3rd edn. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9781789739534 Johannessen, J. (2019) Leadership and Organization in the Innovation Economy. Bingley: Emerald.
Supplementary Reading 9781780175249 Room, S. (2021) Data Protection and Compliance, 2nd edn. Swindon: BCS. Read alongside Flew, T. and Martin, F. R. (eds.) (2022) Digital Platform Regulation: Global Perspectives on Internet Governance. Cham: Palgrave Macmillan (ISBN 9783030952198).
Supplementary Reading 9783030952198 Flew, T. and Martin, F. R. (eds.) (2022) Digital Platform Regulation: Global Perspectives on Internet Governance. Cham: Palgrave Macmillan.
Supplementary Reading 9781408117422 Hopson, B. and Ledger, K. (2009) And What Do You Do? 10 Steps to Creating a Portfolio Career. London: A&C Black.
Supplementary Reading 9781789856460 Orlando, B. (ed.) (2020) Strategy and Behaviors in the Digital Economy. London: IntechOpen.
Supplementary Reading 9781591398394 Ross, J. W., Weill, P. and Robertson, D. C. (2006) Enterprise Architecture as Strategy: Creating a Foundation for Business Execution. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781119551447 Bland, D. J. and Osterwalder, A. (2019) Testing Business Ideas: A Field Guide for Rapid Experimentation. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9781591393078 Iansiti, M. and Levien, R. (2004) The Keystone Advantage: What the New Dynamics of Business Ecosystems Mean for Strategy, Innovation, and Sustainability. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781633699885 Harvard Business Review (2020) HBR's 10 Must Reads on Platforms and Ecosystems. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781119713302 Tidd, J. and Bessant, J. R. (2024) Managing Innovation: Integrating Technological, Market and Organizational Change, 8th edn. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9780743258234 Rogers, E. M. (2003) Diffusion of Innovations, 5th edn. New York, NY: Free Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781633692060 Libert, B., Beck, M. and Wind, J. (2016) The Network Imperative: How to Survive and Grow in the Age of Digital Business Models. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press.
Supplementary Reading 9780230281639 Cortini, M., Tanucci, G. and Morin, E. (eds.) (2010) Boundaryless Careers and Occupational Wellbeing. London: Palgrave Macmillan.
Supplementary Reading 9781119212041 Schein, E. H. and Schein, P. A. (2017) Organizational Culture and Leadership, 5th edn. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.
Supplementary Reading 9780875848631 Shapiro, C. and Varian, H. R. (1998) Information Rules: A Strategic Guide to the Network Economy. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Press.
Supplementary Reading 9781633691728 Evans, D. S. and Schmalensee, R. (2016) Matchmakers: The New Economics of Multisided Platforms. Boston, MA: Harvard Business Review Press.

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Module Review and Approval

Version Date ReviewedBy NextReview
1.0 dd MMMM yyyy Paul Forrest October 2027
1.1 dd MMMM yyyy Paul Forrest September 2027
Note: The information detailed within this record is accurate at the time of publishing and may be subject to change.

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